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The Australian federal government has announced energy and humanitarian assistance for Ukraine under a new $31 million support package.
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The new contribution includes $20 million to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund (established by the European Commission and Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy), which will allow funds to be used efficiently and effectively to provide heat and electricity for Ukrainians, according to a public statement released on 31 May.
In addition, Australia will provide $10 million of emergency humanitarian funding to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs to increase access to essentials such as water, food, and shelter.
To improve services for persons with disabilities in Ukraine, including those needing rehabilitation from war injuries, Australia will provide $1 million to the United Nations Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Minister for International Development and Defence Industry Pat Conroy said Australia continues to demand an end to Russia’s illegal and senseless war.
“The Ukrainian people have displayed extraordinary strength and courage as they defend their territory and sovereignty.
“We are proud to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and provide further support in face of Russia’s deplorable aggression.
“The Australian government remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting the people of Ukraine and contributing alongside partner nations so that Ukraine can end this conflict on its terms.”
Australia’s support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity has totalled more than $1 billion in assistance, including $880 million in military support.
“The Albanese government is unwavering in our support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Foreign Minister Penny Wong said.
“Australia’s $20 million contribution to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund will be used meet the highest priority energy needs and support the Ukrainian people.
“As Russia intensifies its brutal attacks on the people of Ukraine, we also recognise the need for life-saving humanitarian assistance.”
Ukrainian ambassador to Australia and New Zealand Vasyl Myroshnychenko thanked Australia for their contribution to the future of Ukraine.
“I would like to express my utmost gratitude to the government of Australia and Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong personally for announcing $31 million package of assistance for Ukraine,” he said.
“It includes $20 million for Ukraine Energy Support Fund, $10 million for the UN Humanitarian Fund to support the displaced people and vulnerable groups, and $1 million to the United Nations Partnership on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
“The Australian contribution to the Ukraine Energy Support Fund will enable Ukraine to address the most pressing needs in electricity and power generation equipment in light of the recent attacks by Russia at our energy infrastructure. The fund was established by the European Commission and Ukraine’s Ministry of Energy.”
